Sprinkling herbs and spices on food while cooking is a great way to add flavor to a dish, but it’s also a delicious way to reap the nutritious benefits of superfood spices. For centuries spices have been used for their medicinal properties rather than their culinary purposes. Many herbs and spices contain more antioxidants than fruits and vegetables on a per-weight basis. For example, oregano has 42 times more antioxidants than apples.

By adding the following herbs and spices to meals, you can reap their healthful benefits:

1. Turmeric
Turmeric has been having a moment in the spotlight recently and for good reasons. This bright yellow spice gives curry its yellow color and has been loved for years for it’s a natural anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric contains the compound curcumin which has shown to be a powerful antioxidant. Oxidative damage is believed to be one of the key instruments behind aging and many diseases.

2. Cumin
Cumin is another popular spice used in curry dishes and to deliver flavor to Mexican dishes, like tacos. This brown spice has long been used as an immunity booster and digestive aid. Research suggests that cumin may help manage diabetes by stabilizing blood sugar levels and even help with respiratory conditions like bronchitis and asthma.

3. Cinnamon
Cinnamon can be used in many sweet recipes and baked goods, but it’s also enjoyed for its medicinal properties. It’s antioxidant rich, helps fight inflammation, and works wonderfully in managing blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon can slow the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract, which improves insulin sensitivity.

4. Saffron
Saffron is the most prized and expensive spice in the world due to its labor-intensive harvesting method and costly production. It’s been called the “sunshine spice” because it acts as a natural antidepressant. Saffron is also known for its numerous antioxidants and has been shown to neutralize harmful free radicals.

5. Cayenne
Cayenne pepper comes from a type of chili pepper and is used in many spicy dishes. The active ingredient, capsaicin, has been shown to reduce appetite and increase fat burning, which is why it’s a common ingredient in weight loss supplements. There is some research that suggests that cayenne pepper may help prevent certain types of cancer, such as liver, lung, or prostate cancer.

6. Sage
Sage comes from the rosemary family and is packed with antioxidants. Research indicates that this spice can be used to improve brain function and memory, especially for Alzheimer’s patients. Sage inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine, which is a chemical messenger in the brain that accompanies Alzheimer’s disease.

7. Garlic
For centuries garlic has mainly been used for its medicinal properties. Most of the positive health effects are due to the compound allicin, which is where garlic’s pungent smell comes from. Garlic is known for combatting sickness like the common cold and has been used to reduce LDL cholesterol. It can be helpful for treating high blood pressure.